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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Verdict: The Beosound A1 2nd Gen is a beautifully portable Bluetooth speaker with a convincing 360-degree presentation, clear vocals, useful call microphones and unusually flexible EQ controls. Its weak low bass, modest maximum volume, uncertain real-world battery endurance and lack of Wi-Fi make it a better premium personal or small-room speaker than a party system or standalone smart speaker. Because the 2nd Gen has been replaced by the 3rd Gen, verify the generation and condition before buying.
What the Beosound A1 2nd Gen is
The Beosound A1 2nd Gen is a compact, battery-powered speaker designed for Bluetooth playback, small rooms and portable outdoor listening. Bang & Olufsen describes it as a 360-degree speaker for spaces from 5 to 30 square metres (approximately 50 to 300 square feet), including an office, a mid-sized room at home or a small outdoor gathering. It uses a closed-box cabinet, a 3.5-inch woofer, a 3/5-inch tweeter and two 30-watt Class D amplifiers.
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This is specifically the second-generation Beosound A1, not the original Beoplay A1 and not the newer Beosound A1 3rd Gen. RTINGS identifies the 3rd Gen as the replacement for the model reviewed here. That makes model identification part of the buying decision: an old listing can use “A1” without making the generation clear.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe central trade-off is straightforward. You get an elegant, easy-to-carry speaker with broad sound coverage, clear mid-range reproduction, speakerphone capability and useful sound customisation. You do not get Wi-Fi streaming, deep sub-bass, very high party volume or a dependable universal interpretation of the advertised 18-hour battery figure.
#1 Best Overall
- Elevated sound: Feel every beat, bass drop, and whisper with 360-degree studio-quality audio that delivers more decibels, more depth and more soul.
- Waterproof speaker: Take your music anywhere. From spontaneous road trips to relaxed pool days or cozy moments at home thanks to IP67 dust and waterproof certification.
- All-day battery life: Improved battery that lasts 33% more than 2nd generation to give you up to 24 hours of music on a single charge. Fast USB-C charging that takes approximately 3 hours for full power.
- Portable Powerhouse: Compact dimensions of 5.2 x 1.8 x 5.2 inches and weighing just 1.3 lbs, with stereo pairing capability between compatible Beosound A1 speakers.
- Sleek design refresh: Improved design with a minimalistic strap lock and recycled aluminium and plastic, wrapped in a new luxury packaging.
Key specifications and what they mean
| Specification | Beosound A1 2nd Gen | Practical interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 5.1 | Playback comes from a paired device; there is no direct Wi-Fi connection. |
| Driver layout | 1 × 3.5-inch woofer; 1 × 3/5-inch tweeter | A compact two-driver design prioritised for portability rather than deep bass. |
| Amplification | 2 × 30 W Class D | Separate amplification supports the woofer and tweeter, but wattage does not guarantee high acoustic output. |
| Sound direction | 360 degrees | Listeners around the speaker receive a consistent, spacious presentation rather than needing to sit in front of it. |
| Frequency range | 55–20,000 Hz, -10 dB | Bang & Olufsen’s specification; the -10 dB tolerance is important and is not the same as flat response. |
| Maximum loudness | 92 dB at 1 metre | A manufacturer figure, not an independent measurement of every listening environment. |
| Bass capability | 62 dB at 1 metre | Another manufacturer specification; it should not be read as a claim of subwoofer-like bass. |
| Battery claim | Up to 18 hours at typical listening volume | Runtime varies with volume, music intensity and equalizer settings. |
| Independent runtime report | Less than five hours of continuous playback in RTINGS’ review | A review result under that test’s conditions, not a universal battery guarantee. |
| Water and dust protection | IP67 | Bang & Olufsen specifies freshwater submersion to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes, with important exclusions. |
| Microphones | Three | Designed to improve call clarity and voice-assistant pickup. |
The loudness, bass and frequency figures in this table are Bang & Olufsen specifications. They describe the product’s design target and rating, not independent laboratory tests. RTINGS’ listening and battery observations are reported separately below.
Sound quality: spacious and clear, but not bass-heavy
360-degree presentation
RTINGS describes the A1 2nd Gen’s presentation as wide and spacious. The 360-degree design is useful when people are spread around a table or when the speaker is moved between a desk, kitchen and patio. You do not have to keep the front aimed at one listener to hear the mid-range clearly.
That spatial impression is not the same as true stereo separation. RTINGS reports that stereo content is downmixed to mono. If your priority is a left-right soundstage for films or critical music listening, a pair of conventional stereo speakers will be more appropriate. The A1’s advantage is consistent coverage from one small enclosure.
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Vocals and mid-range
RTINGS finds the mid-range balanced and vocals clear. Speech, podcasts and singer-focused recordings are therefore among the safest uses for this speaker. The compact driver arrangement can produce an open, intelligible presentation without requiring the listener to sit directly in front of it.
Bass and treble limits
The same review reports weak low-bass extension and restrained treble. Kick drums and bass instruments may sound lighter than they do on a larger portable speaker, especially at moderate volume. Electronic tracks, hip-hop and cinematic effects lose some of the physical depth that a dedicated woofer or larger cabinet can provide.
Treble that is described as restrained can be comfortable for long listening, but it may not deliver the extra sparkle some listeners expect from cymbals or highly detailed acoustic recordings. The result is a generally balanced, non-aggressive character rather than a bass-forward party tuning.
EQ and Beosonic controls
RTINGS reports that the companion controls provide EQ presets and Beosonic customisation. These settings let you adjust the tonal balance for speech, background music or a brighter personal preference. Equalizer choices also affect battery consumption, so the setting that sounds best is not necessarily the setting that produces the longest runtime.
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Bang & Olufsen states that the Beosound A1 2nd Generation is a Bluetooth speaker only and cannot connect to Wi-Fi. It does not independently join a home network, stream from a network service without a phone or act as a conventional Wi-Fi multi-room speaker.
Bluetooth 5.1 handles the audio link. For a phone or tablet, the normal process is to put the speaker into pairing mode, select it in the device’s Bluetooth menu and start playback. The speaker then depends on that source for music, notifications and internet access.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SOUND: Enjoy Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound when you’re on the move with a peak power of 2x140 watts contained in a sleek, small speaker.
- WATERPROOF SPEAKER: Share your soundtrack on the go, with a durable and wireless lightweight speaker designed for life on the road, at home or by the pool.
- LISTEN LONGER: Improved battery power so you can enjoy music and speakerphone calls for up to 18 hours at increased volume, longer on low settings.
- SLEEK YET STRONG: Designed to travel, the tough aluminum dome is dust- and water-resistant making in an elegantly self-contained portable Bluetooth speaker.
- ALEXA SPEAKER: An intuitive user interface combined with built-in voice control and Amazon Alexa means you’re always in control.
Built-in Alexa support, as described by RTINGS, also relies on the paired phone’s Wi-Fi connection. The speaker is not a self-contained smart-home hub: voice requests need the phone and its data connection to provide the network path. A physical microphone-mute control is available, which is useful when you want to stop voice pickup without unpairing the speaker.
Computer compatibility
Bang & Olufsen says computer pairing generally requires Bluetooth 4.0 and an A2DP profile. Compatibility can still vary with a computer’s Bluetooth hardware, operating-system version and drivers, so that statement is not a guarantee for every laptop or desktop. If a computer does not discover the speaker, update its Bluetooth drivers, remove an old A1 entry, restart Bluetooth and pair again. A computer with no suitable Bluetooth audio profile will need a compatible Bluetooth audio solution; the manufacturer’s support guidance should be checked for that specific machine.
Battery life: an 18-hour claim versus a short independent result
Bang & Olufsen says, “At a typical listening volume, battery life will be up to 18 hours.” The company also says volume, music intensity and equalizer settings affect runtime. “Up to” describes a best-case ceiling, not a guaranteed duration at every volume or with every type of music.
RTINGS reports less than five hours of continuous playback in its review. That is an independent result under the review’s test conditions. The available information does not provide enough detail to reconcile that result with the manufacturer’s 18-hour claim, so neither figure should be presented as a universal promise. Expect the most variation when playing loudly, using bass-heavy material or applying demanding EQ settings.
For a desk, bedroom or short outing where charging is available, the discrepancy may not matter. For a full day away from an outlet, frequent travel or an event, battery uncertainty is a significant limitation. Check the battery indicator before leaving, carry the appropriate USB-C charging equipment and avoid assuming that the headline maximum will apply to your listening level.
Outdoor use and the limits of IP67
Bang & Olufsen says the second-generation A1 can be used outdoors and is its first product with an IP67 certification. The company describes protection against freshwater submersion to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesIP67 does not make the speaker universally waterproof. Bang & Olufsen specifically excludes testing for salty or ionized water and does not guarantee that the exterior will remain unaffected. Treat the rating as protection against rain, splashes and an accidental freshwater drop, not permission to use the speaker in seawater, a saltwater pool or a permanently wet location.
- Suitable scenarios include a dry patio, a picnic where the speaker may encounter light rain and a bathroom shelf away from direct spray.
- Do not deliberately submerge it in the sea, expose it to salt spray for extended periods or interpret the 30-minute figure as a recommended activity.
- After exposure to water, allow the exterior and connection area to dry before charging.
Calls and voice pickup
The A1 2nd Gen contains three microphones, which Bang & Olufsen says improve call clarity. RTINGS reports good voice-assistant pickup and confirms a physical microphone-mute control. That combination makes the speaker useful for a hands-free call at a desk or in a small room, especially when several people need to speak from different positions.
Call quality still depends on the phone, the conferencing app, network conditions and room acoustics. A compact portable speaker should not be treated as a replacement for a dedicated conference-room microphone in a large or noisy space. Its practical strength is convenience: one portable device can handle music, a quick call and voice commands without a separate wired accessory.
Rank #3
- Elevated sound: Feel every beat, bass drop, and whisper with 360-degree studio-quality audio that delivers more decibels, more depth and more soul
- Waterproof speaker: Take your music anywhere from spontaneous road trips to relaxed pool days or cozy moments at home thanks to IP67 dust and waterproof certification
- All-day battery life: Improved battery that lasts 33% more than 2nd generation to give you up to 24 hours of music on a single charge with fast USB-C charging that takes approximately 3 hours for full power
- Portable Powerhouse: Compact dimensions of 5.2 x 1.8 x 5.2 inches and weighing just 1.3 lbs, with stereo pairing capability between compatible Beosound A1 speakers
- Sleek design refresh: Improved design with a minimalistic strap lock and recycled aluminium and plastic, wrapped in a new luxury packaging
How to identify the correct generation before buying
Generation confusion is the most avoidable purchasing mistake with this model. Bang & Olufsen’s identification guide distinguishes the original Beoplay A1 from the later Beosound A1 generations.
| Identification clue | Original Beoplay A1 | Beosound A1 2nd/3rd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Wired connector | Mini-jack line input | USB-C |
| Indicator position | Indicators positioned on the side | Indicator positioned on top |
| Product name used by the guide | Beoplay A1 | Beosound A1 2nd Gen or Beosound A1 3rd Gen |
- Read the complete product name in the listing title and specifications; do not rely on a photograph labelled only “A1.”
- Check the connector. USB-C points to the second or third generation, while the original uses a mini-jack line input.
- Inspect the indicator location against the official identification guidance.
- Ask the seller for the model designation and a photograph of the label if the listing is used, refurbished or missing generation information.
- Confirm whether the item is the 2nd Gen specifically. RTINGS says the 3rd Gen has replaced it, so a newer listing may not match a review of the older model.
Condition matters as much as generation. A used unit may have reduced battery capacity, cosmetic wear or missing charging accessories. Current stock, regional pricing and seller claims are not established here, so verify those details at the point of purchase rather than relying on an old review price.
Who should buy the Beosound A1 2nd Gen?
It makes sense for
- Listeners who want one small speaker that sounds spacious from several positions.
- People who value clear vocals, podcasts and balanced mid-range more than powerful sub-bass.
- Users who want EQ presets and Beosonic customisation instead of a fixed sound profile.
- Anyone needing a portable speaker for a desk, bedroom, kitchen, office or small outdoor gathering.
- Buyers who will use Bluetooth from a phone or computer and do not need network streaming.
- People who appreciate three microphones, voice-assistant pickup and a physical microphone mute.
Look elsewhere if you need
- Deep, room-filling bass from a compact enclosure.
- Very high volume for a large party or crowded outdoor event.
- Reliable all-day playback away from a charger regardless of volume and EQ.
- Wi-Fi streaming, network multi-room features or a smart speaker that works without a phone.
- True stereo separation from a single enclosure.
- Unrestricted use in seawater or other salty and ionized-water environments.
Strengths and compromises at a glance
| Strengths | Compromises |
|---|---|
| Spacious 360-degree presentation | Stereo material is downmixed to mono |
| Clear, balanced mid-range and vocals | Weak low-bass extension |
| EQ presets and Beosonic sound customisation | Treble is restrained in RTINGS’ assessment |
| Three microphones and physical microphone mute | Voice features depend on the paired phone’s network connection |
| Bluetooth 5.1 and compact portability | No Wi-Fi connection |
| IP67 freshwater protection within stated limits | Saltwater and ionized-water exposure are not covered |
| Manufacturer claim of up to 18 hours | RTINGS measured less than five hours in continuous playback |
Setup checklist for a new or used unit
- Charge the speaker over USB-C before the first long session.
- On your phone or tablet, open Bluetooth settings and select the Beosound A1 2nd Gen when it appears.
- Play a familiar vocal track and check that the sound remains clear as you walk around the speaker.
- Open the Bang & Olufsen control app, if supported on your device, and inspect EQ presets and Beosonic controls.
- Test the microphones with a short call before relying on the speaker for a meeting.
- Locate the physical microphone-mute control and confirm how the mute status is indicated.
- If using Alexa, verify that the paired phone has Wi-Fi or mobile data; the speaker itself cannot join Wi-Fi.
- For a computer, confirm Bluetooth 4.0 or newer support and an A2DP audio profile, then update drivers if pairing fails.
Common problems and practical fixes
The speaker appears to be the wrong model
Check for USB-C and a top-positioned indicator. A mini-jack input and side indicators identify the original Beoplay A1. If the listing description conflicts with the hardware, pause the purchase or request clarification.
Bluetooth pairing fails
Remove an old A1 entry from the source device, restart Bluetooth, place the speaker back into pairing mode and try again. On a computer, confirm that the adapter supports the required Bluetooth audio profile and that its drivers are current. Hardware and driver differences mean that computer compatibility cannot be guaranteed solely by the speaker’s Bluetooth version.
Alexa does not answer
Confirm that the phone remains paired and has an active Wi-Fi or mobile-data connection. The A1 2nd Gen has no independent Wi-Fi connection, so voice features cannot function as a standalone network service.
The battery drains much faster than expected
Reduce playback volume, review the EQ setting and consider whether bass-heavy or highly dynamic music is being played. Bang & Olufsen’s 18-hour figure is an “up to” claim at typical volume, while RTINGS reports less than five hours in its continuous-playback review. A used speaker can also have age-related battery wear.
Outdoor use causes concern
Keep the IP67 rating within Bang & Olufsen’s stated freshwater boundary: up to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes. Avoid seawater and ionized water, and do not assume the cabinet’s appearance will remain unaffected after exposure.
Bottom line: a refined portable speaker, not an all-purpose system
The Beosound A1 2nd Gen earns its premium positioning through portability, broad 360-degree coverage, clear mid-range reproduction, adjustable sound and capable microphones. Those qualities suit personal listening, speech, small rooms and short outdoor sessions.
Its limitations are equally concrete: no Wi-Fi, mono playback from stereo sources, weak low bass, restrained treble, limited maximum loudness and a major gap between the manufacturer’s “up to 18 hours” claim and RTINGS’ less-than-five-hour continuous-playback result. IP67 protection is useful but specifically bounded, and the model has been superseded by the 3rd Gen.
Buy the 2nd Gen when its size, design and 360-degree usability matter more than bass output and guaranteed long runtime. Before paying, verify that the listing really is the second generation, confirm its condition and decide whether Bluetooth-only operation fits the way you listen.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
